WA-based Label Image has invested in a Durst Tau 330 E UV inkjet press, coupled with the Durst Workflow Label system, including variable data printing.
The new Durst - supplied by PES - is enabling Label Image to bring the majority of its outsourced jobs back inhouse. Jobs that were either too short- to mid-range in length, had a tight turnaround time, required customisation or personalisation, and multiple SKU applications are now produced on the Tau.
Owner Nick Godwin says along with the engineering quality and print performance of the Tau 330 E, the growth potential the Durst offered was key in the decision. He said Label Image eschewed cheaper presses in favour of the ROI it will achieve on the Durst.
Formed in 1986, Label Image was acquired by Nick and Emma Godwin in four years ago. Since then it has made a number of improvements and investments focused on driving growth and maintaining a high level of service and support for its expanding customer base.
Godwin said: "We first assessed the basics of adaptability, reliability, quality and the opportunities offered to enhance our client offerings. The Durst Tau 330 E ticked all those boxes and more. Its productivity, print quality and colour consistency were stand out capabilities.
“During the extensive decision-making process the growth potential for Label Image was crucial. We considered the option of additional services and offerings but also wanted a return on investment (ROI) model that made sense and allowed us to scale up to meet future demand. We also recognised that having a lower capital cost press doesn’t always equate to a lower total cost of print.”
Emma Godwin continues: “The Durst Tau is remarkable at reducing media waste. We can print a press proof and rewind the media to the next label start point and immediately begin printing with no waste. This means the first label is a billable label, reducing waste and costs, something I have not seen on any other press to date. Nor have I seen this level of image quality on any other inkjet press.”
The company was also impressed with the range of media it could handle without the mess, cost or sourcing of primers or post coatings on materials. These range from direct thermal, cosmetic, food and beverage to industrial, and covers most commercial labels. Other convincers were the white ink opacity achieved in the single pass print process, reducing production time and operator flexibility.
Label Image’s single-pass direct printing Durst Tau 330 E has no blankets or transfer components that could compromise printed colour or densities.
The deal also includes back up and support from Durst and its Australian partner Photo Electronics Services (PES). Nick Godwin concludes: “Our experience with Durst and PES has been excellent both from a pre and post installation perspective. The installation was completed within a week and operators trained immediately after allowing us to transition into production sooner than expected.”
Matt Ashman, national sales manager at PES said, "We are really pleased Label Image has joined the Durst family in Australia. I am looking forward to working with such an innovative trailblazing company."